Lotion bars are among my top picks for homemade beauty creations. They’re portable, simple to transport, and enjoyable to craft. Over time, I’ve experimented with numerous versions of my classic lotion bar recipe. Today, I’m excited to share my bronzing lotion bars recipe.
I love a natural tan and enjoy a sunlit glow. However, during winter, that’s not always achievable. These bronzing lotion bars provide your skin with a natural glow and shimmer, regardless of the weather.
I also use them in warmer weather to moisturize and shield my skin.
Sunscreen and Bronzing Lotion Bars
These bronzing lotion bars were inspired by a suggestion from a reader in Hawaii, who included coffee-infused oil for a bronzing effect in her lotion bars. This inspired me to create a bronzing bar that repels bugs and offers sunscreen, perfect for beach trips.
The sunscreen component is optional if you’re aiming to absorb vitamin D naturally. If you’re new to natural sunscreens, I recommend testing carefully as the SPF is low.
They smell delightful and I often take several to the beach, keeping them cool to avoid melting. You can opt to skip the beeswax for a softer lotion.
These bars provide a gentle bronzing effect, some sun protection, and keep pests at bay. Fun fact: Bugs are still active in winter in the South! If you prefer not to have a bug-repelling bar, there are other essential oils to consider.
Skin-Friendly Essential Oils
Here are a few essential oil blend suggestions that promote skin health and have a pleasant scent when included in a lotion bar. Any of these essential oils can be used individually as well.
Conventional Bronzing Lotion
I avoid products like tanning mousses or self-tanners because they contain chemicals I prefer not to use. Plus, they often don’t live up to their promise of a streak-free tan, and I’d rather avoid the mitt-and-orange-skin routine.
The FDA approves dihydroxyacetone (DHA) for self-tanners, but advises against getting it on mucous membranes, in the mouth, or inhaling it. That’s tricky when applying it on the skin.
Natural Bronzing Lotion Bars
You can make natural sunless tanning lotion bars in several ways. The sun-free tan effect is subtle, unlike store-bought options. Matching it to my skin tone isn’t a concern because these bars aren’t intensely pigmented.
Start by infusing coconut oil with coffee for a moisturizing bronzing lotion. To boost color, add mica powder for shimmer or use natural mineral makeup in a darker shade for more coverage.
It won’t match store-bought tanners, but I see that as a benefit.
How to Infuse Coconut Oil with Coffee:
To achieve a natural bronzing effect, I infused coconut oil with finely ground coffee. I made a large batch for future use, but you can halve the recipe.
- In a double boiler, combine 2 cups of coconut oil with 1 cup of finely ground coffee.
- Simmer on low heat, stirring frequently, until the oil darkens.
- Strain using a cheesecloth or old t-shirt and let the oil cool.
- Use this oil in the following recipe.
Bronzing Lotion Bars for Glowing Skin
These coffee-infused lotion bars give your skin a healthy, natural glow and offer optional SPF and bug protection.
Author: Katie Wells
- Combine all ingredients except essential oils and mica in a quart-size mason jar. Place the jar in a saucepan of water on the stove, or use a double boiler.
- Simmer gently, stirring until everything melts smoothly.
- Remove from heat and mix in essential oils and mica.
- Pour the blend into molds carefully.
- Let the lotion bars cool fully before removing them from the molds.
Notes:
- Instead of using individual molds, pour the mixture into a square silicone pan and cut into bars once set.
- Store in a cool, dry location for up to six months.
How to Use the Lotion Bars
To apply, hold the bar and rub it gently on dry skin. Body heat will help transfer the oils from the bar. Store them on a small dish on your dresser or bathroom counter.
Additional Notes
Although the bar itself won’t reveal coffee’s dark color, it will give the skin a tinge. Be cautious, as the color might transfer onto light fabric until fully absorbed into the skin.
More Lotion Bar Ideas
Once you begin making lotion bars, you may find it hard to stop! Here are a few more lotion bar recipes you might enjoy.
Don’t Want to Make Them?
If making lotion bars is too time-consuming, you can purchase them. My friends at Made On produce a range of lotion bars, soaps, and other natural goods meeting my high standards. Wellness Mama readers can use the code “wellnessmama” for a 15% discount on orders.
Find out more about Made On lotion bars and purchase them here.
Have you ever made lotion bars? What’s your favorite type? Share your thoughts below!
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